Climate change health impact awareness scale: validity and reliability study of the adult form

Background

Climate change is a global public health issue posing serious risks to human health. This study aimed to develop a valid and reliable scale to assess adults’ awareness of the health effects of climate change.

Methods

This methodological study included 336 adults aged ≥18 years. The scale development process involved literature review, expert consultation, pilot testing, and psychometric evaluation. Content validity was assessed using the Davis technique based on 11 experts. A pilot study with 30 participants evaluated clarity and structure. Data were collected via self-report questionnaires. Construct validity was examined using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, item–total correlations, and test–retest analysis.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis suggested a three-factor structure; however, confirmatory factor analysis indicated high correlation between two factors and model misfit, leading to a revised two-factor model with 16 items. The sub-dimensions were awareness of health risks and disease risks related to climate change. Internal consistency was high (α = 0.91), with subscale values of 0.87 and 0.91. The total explained variance was 48%. Model fit indices were acceptable (RMSEA=0.076, CFI=0.97, GFI=0.90, SRMR=0.057). Item–total correlations ranged from 0.42 to 0.65. Test–retest reliability indicated stability (ICC=0.72–0.84).

Conclusions

The scale is a valid and reliable tool for assessing awareness of climate change–related health effects in adults. It may support public health research, awareness interventions, and evidence-based public health strategies.

Key messages

• A valid and reliable scale was developed to measure adults’ awareness of climate change’s health impacts, enabling accurate assessment of public knowledge and perceptions.

• This scale identifies gaps in awareness of climate-related health risks, supporting evidence-based public health interventions, education, and policy development.